Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, will receive the 2025 International Emmy Founders Award at the 53rd International Emmy Awards gala in New York on Nov. 24.
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the honor Monday, citing Walden’s “transformative impact” on the industry and the global reach of the series she has overseen during her career.
“Dana Walden’s contributions to entertainment are truly remarkable, having shaped the creation and success of numerous iconic and award-winning television series,” said Academy president and CEO Bruce L. Paisner. “Her leadership, first as CEO of Fox Television Group and now as co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, has played a pivotal role in influencing the global industry. We are delighted to recognize her exceptional work and lasting impacts with the Founders Award.”
Walden called the honor “an extraordinary privilege,” crediting her collaborators. “I’ve worked with some of the most talented creators and executives in the world — people who care deeply about storytelling and its power to connect audiences across the globe,” she said. “This recognition reflects their passion and dedication, and I am very proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
At Disney, Walden oversees the company’s global portfolio of entertainment media, news and content businesses, sharing oversight of Disney+ and Hulu along with technology and ad sales. Disney+ now operates in more than 150 countries and 40 languages. In 2024, the company received 60 Emmy Awards, breaking the record for the most wins in a single year by one company.
Before joining Disney, Walden was CEO of Fox Television Group, where she led Fox Broadcasting Company from fourth to first place in the ratings. She has overseen the production and development of series including 24, Abbott Elementary, The Americans, American Horror Story, American Idol, The Bear, Dancing with the Stars, Family Guy, Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, Homeland, The Kardashians, Modern Family, Only Murders in the Building, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Shōgun, The Simpsons and This Is Us.
Past recipients of the Founders Award include Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, J.J. Abrams, Jesse Armstrong, Shonda Rhimes, Ryan Murphy and David E. Kelley.
